Volunteer Spotlight January 2022: Kori Savitt
Kori Savitt, with her husband, Charles
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m a mom of three beautiful daughters and two great son-in-laws, a Baubie to three perfect grandkids, and I’ve been married to a wonderful man, Charles, for 40 years. I am a big sports fan and I love my dogs, gardening, reading, crafts and many other things. I have helped people in many different ways.
I used to work a doctor’s office during the week and at Mount Sinai Hospital on weekends. I continued working at the doctor’s office until I stopped to take care of my mom who was terminally ill. I just couldn’t go back to the medical field, so I taught preschool at Bet Shalom and Adath Jeshurun. After many years, I decided to go back to the medical field and found my dream job, where I worked at Partners in Pediatrics in Maple Grove and I loved it.
What motivated you become a volunteer?
I always knew I wanted to volunteer at JFCS. It’s an organization that has helped my family and an enormous amount of people in many ways. I contacted (Volunteer Engagement Manager) Dana Shapiro two years ago and I was hooked!
What JFCS programs have you volunteered with?
I first started volunteering with JFCS by decorating and delivering Chanukah bags (from the Hag Sameach Program) to Sholom Home. I currently volunteer with Cards for the Community, Caring Connections events, and Hag Sameach, where I pick out gifts, put together Mitzvah bags and wrap the presents. I also volunteer with projects in the warehouse with (Hag Sameach Coordinator) Mindy Teele as needed. It’s such a beautiful thing what JFCS does!
How has being a JFCS volunteer impacted your life?
It brings a purpose to my day and life and it is such a rewarding feeling I get for helping JFCS – especially the people that JFCS serves.
Do you have a memorable story about your JFCS volunteer experience to share?
My favorite memory is my first event helping with a Caring Connections event at Beth El Synagogue in August, making challahs, listening to stories and singing songs together. I am so grateful that (Inclusion Program Manager) Stacey Spencer reached out to me to volunteer.
What would you say to someone who’s thinking of volunteering with JFCS?
If you have a little time and you’re thinking of volunteering, try JFCS. There are so many different opportunities.
Anything else to share?
I want to thank Dana Shapiro, Stacey Spencer and Mindy Teele. The three of them are such awesome people who represent JFCS proud.
For more information about volunteer services at JFCS, contact Dana Shapiro, Community & Volunteer Engagement Manager, at dshapiro@jfcsmpls.org or 952-417-2112 or click here.